INTER:VIEW - Justin Romack

INTER:VIEW is a new feature of Todd Blog where I interview my friends to showcase how rockin' awesome they are. According to the rules of INTER:VIEW, the interview post with the most comments will win a free guest-blogging spot in the future.

#1. First off, Justin, congratulations on being selected as our first interview. Does it feel good to be more desired than Clay, Robert, Jason or David?

Well, Todd, I have to admit that I was a little shocked when you informed me about receiving this honor. To be honest, I had not been readingyour blog that much that particular week, so I was unaware that the competition was even underway. But, it is pretty amazing to know that I was requested (ratheroverwhelmingly, I might add). And, yes, in response to your question – it feels great to be number one…because I know that is what you were really asking.

#2. Most folks know that you are a gifted drummer, faithful friend and a bit of a computer expert. But most people don't know that you actually very skilledin funny voices. You can do some great impressions and have even created characters out of thin air. When did you realize you could do voices?

I actually don't like my real voice, so I always wanted to try something new. Plus I am really good at copying everyone else's great ideas – so impressionsare perfect. Actually, I remember that I won a radio contest as a kid when I called and left a voicemail message with a bunch of funny characters and noises.That, plus some crazy friends, have pushed me to explore the horizons of voice impressions. I have a couple new characters I am working on now. I, alongwith the help of my buddy Jinx, have thought about doing a prank call CD in the future. I think that would be fun

#3. You really seem to do well working in the Family Guy character-base. Any reason why those character voices are easier to do than, say, the Simpsons or even kid stuff on Disney?

I am actually working on a Miley Cyrus / Hannah Montana voice right now. I think that might come in handy one day. But, in all honesty, I watch a lotof "Family Guy", and the characters on that show are very funny. I have a hard time being funny on my own, so I like to piggyback off of their success.Plus, the show has a ton of different folks to learn voices for, so it's (in a strange way), somewhat of a challenge to work with lots of characters likethat. And, the Mr. Herbert voice is just so useful in everyday life.

#4. Who's your most popular voice?

My most requested voice is Tyrone Philips. Tyrone, known as either "T", "Ty", or "Rone", is an urban gentleman, hailing from Lufkin. He's a Lufkin Highalumni (excelling in Geometry, thanks to his favorite teacher, Ms. Jones). He hasn't been the same since his loved one, ReRe, was tragically struck bya vehicle in the Brookshire Brothers parking lot. Since then, Tyrone has invested his time in playing tambourine in the TWB and working for the SmokehouseBlues Show on a local Lufkin radio station (spinning the best in old school and party blues).

#5. Most of the folks reading this are aware, but just in case this particular blog is drawing in some guests, we should probably mention that you are blind.Correct?

Technically, you are only half right. I am legally blind, which is to say that I see light and some contrast and shapes. Let's just say that I am limitedenough visually that last week I walked into a restroom, and didn't realize the lights were off the entire five minutes I was in there. It was a surprisewhen I went to turn them on and noticed the switch was already off. I was a little embarrassed.

#6. You travel with Larry, who is a Golden Lab. He's a service or "guide" dog. Most folks refer to him as a "seeing eye dog." Is the term perceived as weird or incorrect in the blind community?

Unfortunately, in the area in which I live – I hear "seeing guard dog" more than "seeing eye dog". (There's a big difference, and I honestly don't think Larry could guard anything but his rawhide bone.) The blind community has no preference as to what you should call our service animals. We are really a pretty mellow bunch, except when you scrub all the Braille off of the public restroom signs…that's not cool – you know who I'm talking to.

#7. Because Larry is with you almost anywhere you go, you end up having a lot of Larry Stories. So far, what's the strangest or funniest thing that's happenedregarding Larry.

It is always funny to see people overreact at the size of Larry. It's almost like that didn't know dogs could weigh 90 lbs. and that they are a good150-200 lbs. larger than said dog. Yet, I cannot turn a corner and pass an individual in a waiting room without being hollered at. About two weeks ago, I was at the doctor, and Larry scared a man. Like "jump out of your chair" scared. And in his defense, I came up from behind him, however, he didn't have to scream obscenities at Larry for startling him. Not to mention that the average age in the room is about 74 or so, and their eyes were glued to him for the remainder of the time we were there, like we were plotting some uprising in the middle of Retina Associates of Texas.

#8. You've been married almost a year to your beautiful wife, Angela, who we all know is awesome. This may be a bit too personal, but why exactly did she marry you?

It is a bit personal, Todd. You still ask though? I could see where there is reason to ask it though – I mean, she's not musical, so she doesn't need a drummer around. I can't cook much, so it's not my lack of culinary skills. I don't have an awesome car…so she didn't marry me for my sweet ride. Great…well…ummm…youtell me. Why did she marry me?

#9. I mean, you're moderately attractive and friendly enough, I guess...but were there just no other guys in Lufkin when she started dating?

I mean, I guess I possess some quality that she finds attractive and worthy of a life-long partner, right? Great, I am already paranoid, and there yougo making it worse. I guess I am somewhat funny. I mean, for the first month or so before we started dating, we would make prank phone calls to the HolidayInn reservation line. I mean, I was good enough at those calls to keep her entertained until they switch the phone lines over to the UK (which is 2 A.M.,in case you are wondering). That must've counted for something.

#10. All jokes aside, though, you liked Angela long before she like you, right? Tell us that story!

Two words: Forrest Layton. That's right, I felt I was in direct competition with him. I was fully prepared to knock him square between the eyes. But,something stopped me. Or, more like, you stopped me. See, I liked Angela from the first moment I met her. She's a Godly woman, very smart, very witty and humorous, and I have a blast with her each and every day. But, Forrest seemed to be the topic of conversation with the girls at my church around that time. So, I automatically assumed that Angela liked Forrest. I heard Forrest and Todd talking about her one time so, then I assumed…girl likes guy, guy likes girl…simple college level arithmetic, kiddos. But, Todd helped a brother out. He got the facts straight. And, he asked me this to have me publicly proclaim his awesomness in getting me and my wife together. And it worked.

#11. Are you terrified at all at the prospect of fathering children - unleashing other little Justin Romacks on society? Because it scares me...

Scared? No. But, you definitely should be. I plan to raise up the greatest militia of prank callers this world has ever seen. We will be unstoppable. Actually, to be quite honest, as of late, I have been thinking about when Angela and I want to have children– and what my disability will play in that. To be honest, I am a little scared. But, I have a great wife, who will be a great mother…and will make up forall the mess I will surely make.

#12. You actually were a bad little kid, weren't you?

Bad kid, maybe. Difficult, yes. Annoying, definitely. Mischevious, at times. Well, I guess I was kind of a bad kid. I was a little manipulative withmy prosthetic eye, at times. I remember during the second week of kindergarten, it was nap time. I wasn't having any of that. So, I popped my eye out,dropped it on the ground, and started shouting, "Oh no! Look! My eye fell out." I don't believe that prosthetic eye procedures are a requirement in theTexas teacher certification. But, aside from my prank calling, I grew out of all my mischief.

#13. But now youre a nice guy. What's the moral of your story?

You mean to say, you are a fantastic, law-abiding, upstanding citizen…and a great guy to hang out with, right? I have come a long way, yet I stillhave a long way to go. I think it has to do with, first of all, my wife. She keeps me on track. And my friends, who have really helped me to become a betterman. Except for Jinx and Philip…they've been encouraging this prank call thing, as of late. But, they are funny dudes with great ideas.

If you'd like to support Justin as he pursues a career in prank-call-comedy albums, please leave a comment below. (He actually is quite good at it...)

INTER:VIEW - Clay Walker

INTER:VIEW is a new feature of Todd Blog where I interview my friends to showcase how rockin' awesome they are. According to the rules of INTER:VIEW, the interview post with the most comments will win a free guest-blogging spot in the future.

#1. Good morning.

Good morning, Todd.

#2. Thank you for your time. It's an honor to speak with you.

You bet. You're absolutely right...it is an honor to speak to me.

#3. First off...the question on everyone's mind...How's The Beard?

The beard is doing fine. Thanks for asking.

#4. Any plans to tend it in any way?

Well...I tend to it everyday. I wash it, condition it, brush it. If you mean, "hey, are you going to cut it anytimesoon?", then my answer is a resounding, "no".

#5. Do you think it's sad that, after my Southern Gospel post, Rachel Fullen tried to distance herself from us?

I do think it's sad. However, I understand because she was brought out into the open at camp a couple of weeks ago. Ifind that some so-called fans of SGM are "closet" fans. When word gets out...those folks tend to back-peddle. I don't hold it against her, though.

#6. You've always been a "Gold City Quartet" man, correct?

Yes, I am a big fan of Gold City. In fact, my youth ministryin Crockett sponsored a Gold City concert back in 1998. It was fantastic.

#7. A lot of people don't know that you have a beautiful singing voice. In fact, years ago, you used to sing almost as much as you traveled to speak and do comedy, right?

Thank you, Todd. Yes, I do have a beautiful singing voice.It's quite fantastic. In high school I traveled quite a bit singing. Oh, those were the days...a jam box, accompaniment tracks of Ray Boltz, SCC, Steve Camp, Steve Green and Wayne Watson, an open road, a hot mic, and eager ears anticipating the smooth sultry melodic voice of a mid-pubescent teenager. I also had the opportunity to perform as the bass soloist withthe Dallas Symphony Orchestra as a freshman in college. If I'm not mistaken it was Carl Orff's Carmina Burana. Lots of fun.

#8. Do you support my theory that every youth pastor secretlywants to be a worship leader?

Yes. There are two reasons. The reason is that I findstudents do not react the same way to a sermon. I mean...you don't see hands "raising the roof" or enthusiastic orchestration of rushing the stage...unless I whip them into a frenzy with a good alter call.

#9. You know I based that theory on you, right?

Yes, I know.

#10. I also remember a picture circulating around at one point. That picture depicted you with a mullet. That's not areal picture, is it?

Oh, yes it is my friend. I sported the mullet and did so with honor. In fact, when I finally cut it off it was 11 inches in length in the back. It was beautiful.

#11. You were a rocker, huh?

Yes, I was. In high school I was quite the metal head. I loved AC/DC, Metallica, Slayer, Iron Maiden, Black Sabbath, and lots of others. I also had a love for the hairbands...Poison, Twisted Sister, and the like. My favorite band in high school was Def Leppard. Rick Savage, Rick Allen, Steve Clark, and my hero, lead singer, Joe Elliot. I wore acid washed jeans that were ripped to shreds, bandannas on mywrists, and torn shirts. Joe was my inspiration for the mullet. All of this is sad...but true.

#12. And yet, now, you love country music. What's wrong with you?

I was raised on country music. It's my roots.

#13. Early on in Brad Paisley's career, you were quoted as saying that Paisley would "save country music." Do you think that's happened?

No. I spoke out of line. He is good...I love his music. If country music survives all the pop-country crap, it will be because of Alan Jackson and George Strait.

#14. And lastly, why do you drive so fast? (Without a seatbelt...)

I drive fast so I can get to where I'm going more quickly than if I drive slow. I don't like seat belts because they are uncomfortable and they wrinkle my shirts.

A former mullet-wearing punk teenager who also traveled as a CCM-karaoke-singer who also loved country music and now races around town without a seatbelt on as it stares at his massive goatee. Doesn't that kind-of-guy deserve some comments?

INTER:VIEW - Jason Fullen

INTER:VIEW is a new feature of Todd Blog where I interview my friends to showcase how rockin' awesome they are. According to the rules of INTER:VIEW, the interview post with the most comments will win a free guest-blogging spot in the future.

#1. Hello, Jason.
First off, Todd, I want to say thank you for the opportunity to improve traffic to your blog by this interview. I know we have talked off-line about ways for you to increase traffic and this is a sure fire way to skyrocket your numbers. Also, as we agreed in our previous email, no compensation is necessary, however, it is expected. If you would, please send payment to my PayPal account. I think you know where to send it. Okay, I’m ready.

#2. How are you?
Well, I’m good. It’s been a busy summer though. You know as a Pastor to students, I have a pretty hectic schedule. Already this summer I’ve had a week of camp which included, hanging out with students doing nothing, making late night trips to Waffle House, and playing games til’ late at night. Not to mention the couple of times I’ve had students over to my house to watch movies, and the last minute camping trip to go boating & water skiing with friends. Then there’s my most recent mission trip to Pennsylvania with seven students where we ate out at Panera Bread, went to Starbucks, and went to a state park to swim. When you factor in all the hot weather, ranging from a smoldering AM temperature of 650 to a high of 800, it close to unbearable. I don’t guess I have to say it’s been grueling, but it’s obvious I’ve been overworking. I definitely need to take some time off to recoup. I could use a little R&R. It would be fun to have a week to just chill. Maybe even spend some time watching some movies, or hang out with some students, possibly go to the lake and ski or swim. You know – down time. Speaking of down time, I leave for vacation very soon – headed to the Adirondacks.

#3. Jason, among all my friends, you are definitely one of the most jovial. You never seem "down." I don't think I've ever seen you angry. I'm sure you get that way, but would you say rage is a rare emotion for you?
Rage is not that strong a temptation for me. I do get angry from time to time, but I’ve noticed if I get too angry then some minor things begin to happen. Nothing noticeable, just a few minor things like, instant enormous muscles, turning green, and my eyes turn a strange combination of colors. I don’t think it’s anything to be concerned about though.

On a more serious note, I do try and keep an accurate perspective on things, and not just my perception of a situation. I recently lost my wedding ring on a boating trip. It was very sad to me and I could have really gotten angry about it. Instead of just sulking about it for days, I tried to bring myself back to the reality that it was only a piece of metal and that while it was of great value to me, I should just be even more grateful for my spouse and the time God has given us this far. I’m trying to walk in the reality that I don’t control much of anything and that my life is in God’s hands.

By the way, if any of you happen to be scuba diving at Lake Raystown in PA, and you find a wedding band, please return it to me. Thanks.

#4. Do you think there's any chance that, later on in life, you'll snap and start punching your loved ones?
Funny you should mention this; I sometimes wonder how far people are from insanity. I’ve had some crazy thoughts and we all do I suppose, but knowing how to dismiss them is somewhat tricky. What if one day one of those crazy thoughts slips by? One crazy thought gets by and you don’t get a second chance. This is very scary for me. I don’t ever want to do something stupid and live in regret. I guess as frail humans we all are only a crazy thought away from insanity. So to answer your question, it’s highly possible, but I sure hope not.

#5. 'Cause getting punched by you would be something. You're rather large and strong.
Okay. Timeout. I want to take this moment to address something that has gone on too long. Fat Jokes. Did everybody else get this question? No, probably not. Just me. And speaking of questions, # 5 is not even a freakin’ question, Todd. Now out of all the people in the world to call a spade a spade, it would be you and you are not asking a question here, you are making a declarative statement: “You’re rather large and strong.” What is that even supposed to accomplish? Did you think this was the best forum to address my weight issue? Come on, Todd! A private email simply stating your concern for my physical health and well-being would have been enough and perhaps even received! But NO, YOU HAVE TO GO MAKING A PRIVATE MATTER A PUBLIC MATTER AND BROADCAST MY WEIGHT OF 294 POUNDS TO THE WORLD AND NOT EVEN IN THE FORM OF A BLASTED QUESTION! WHAT THE HECK ARE YOU THINKING? NOW YOU’VE MADE ME CUSS! WOW, TODD! IF YOUR PUNK BUTT WAS HERE RIGHT NOW, (O GREAT, NOW I’M TURNING GREEN!) I WOULD HIT YOU SQUARE IN THE JAW!

#6. Since moving away from Texas, you've gotten involved in hiking, biking and running. Has Maryland convinced you that Texans are lazy?
No. Maryland has convinced me that Texas is hot. I have enjoyed a new set of activities since coming to Maryland. It seems I have traded my rod & reel for a mountain bike, running shoes and a golf bag, however, it has nothing to do with lazy Texans. Having been in Maryland for nearly 3 years now I have had ample opportunities to enjoy the outdoors in new ways. I golf some, mountain bike when I can and try to run weekly. Rachel and I would like to run a ½ marathon in the fall. I have realized that in Texas these activities are possible, but maybe not as enjoyable because of the hot weather. Also, there is a ton of places to fish and hunt in Texas, and it’s not as easily available here. I’m also getting older, so I want to be healthy and let’s face it, fishing for catfish in a flat bottom boat while drinking Dr. Pepper and eating double stuff Oreos isn’t going to keep you healthy. That’s why I mountain bike or run while drinking Dr. Pepper and eating double stuff Oreos. – It’s way healthier.

#7. You're a middle school pastor. A very good one. What are the best and worst parts of serving young teenagers?
I’ll address the worst part first. The worst part of being a middle school pastor for me is having enough of a grasp on the culture and seeing the masses of young teens that are targets and they don’t know it. In addition to this is not being able to get the attention of a middle schooler to show them that they are being targeted. I don’t just mean by culture either, but also in the spiritual realm. I can see that middle schoolers with all their varying emotions, broken or blended families, identity and purpose seeking selves are being targeted for their money, desires, and ability to influence, for the sole purpose of creating profit for some company or in spiritual terms, drawing a student away from Christ. This is very painful to see and at times it feels so hopeless.

When I see families in the middle of a divorce, or see the pain of an addiction or see how some sin has crept in through some member of the family, only to tear up the heart of a 7th or 8th grader, I can get angry. I hate to see a student start coping with pain in unhealthy ways. As a student pastor, I honestly don’t get mad at the students as much as you might think. I often lay a lot of what I see at the feet of the parents. It seems that more often than not, good parenting produces some good character in a student’s life. Since I’m not a parent, I have to tread lightly here, but what I do know is that after 15 years of student ministry on some level, I have seen the power a parent has to influence their child to either follow Christ or to worship some ball, instrument, or the American dream, usually at the expense of living a less-than-faithful existence. The opposite holds just as true, and I especially appreciate seeing a parent teach their child how to excel in an activity while living a life that is full of faith and willing to make sacrifices for that faith. Watching the culture chew up a student is painful. Watching a parent stand by and do nothing (or worse, help culture) is almost too much to bare.

As to the best parts, well that’s easy. Watching students light up when they learn a new biblical truth and getting to witness it first hand. I love talking to students, making jokes and knowing that on the inside they are being drawn closer to Christ and that God is doing Kingdom work within them. It’s so much fun to me to sit and talk with a middle school student about spiritual things. And so rewarding to talk with a former student now in college and see all the things God is continuing to do. I love getting to talk to students and seeing the adversity they’ve overcome. Some have good parental support and others do not, but through it all, God is faithful to call students in a life of sacrifice to follow Christ and many students are answering that call. God has given me a passion for young students because of all those that cared so much for me while I was young. I’m truly grateful and feel called to return the favor.

#8. I'm going to ask you to be totally honest here. It's a well known fact that you love rap music. I'm going to ask you a question now and I want you to shoot straight with us. How much did you LOVE dcTalk's "Free At Last" album?
Okay, honestly I LOVED “Free At Last” A LOT! It was so much fun to hear and feel the cadence of the lyrics as they flowed from the stereo. It was especially freeing to hear rap music that I knew Tricia Ann (Ed. note - "Tricia" is Jason's mother.) wasn’t going to get all “up in arms” about! And it sure beat having to take my stereo and move the antenna all around looking for a Houston station to play just 1 rap song. Back in the day, you couldn’t find a rap song on any local radio station if you wanted to. “Free At Last,” made me free at last. Especially since Beastie Boys, Fat Boys and RUN_DMC were already banned by Tricia. J And while a do enjoy Rap music, I really can’t think of any rap songs on my Ipod. However, this conversation has made me want to download some Lecrae.

#9. Back when we were kids, your claim-to-fame within the youth group was your ability to rap the lightning-fast bridge of dcTalk's "Jesus Is Just Alright With Me." If you had to, could you rap it today?
Actually, I don’t think I could. I think a few months back I was somewhere and heard it and thought I was going to jump in and look all cool with the words and nothing was there. I would need a 3-4 warm up rounds and then I’d be ready to spit.

#10. Do you still stay up way too late?
Yes. I’m trying to do better, but I stay up way too late.

#11. Does it still take four alarm clocks, all set to different times and different alarm times to wake you up?
I’m down to 2. However Rach is still at 4.

#12. Thank you, Jason, for your time.
Again, this is not a question, but since you avoided the whole fat joke digression, I’ll let it slide. Thank you for asking. Remember, just like we said in the previous email, Paypal is fine and I will try and mention you in my next book, just to throw you a bone since I’m a good guy and all. Peace.

Like what Jason had to say? Tell him!

INTER:VIEW - Robert Conn

INTER:VIEW is a new feature of Todd Blog where I interview my friends to showcase how rockin' awesome they are. According to the rules of INTER:VIEW, the interview post with the most comments will win a free guest-blogging spot in the future.

#1. Robert, how do you keep your shirts from getting wrinkled? You always look so fresh and poised...it's amazing.

Todd,I’m honored that your first question to me would be a reference to my physical appearance. I tell you it’s hard to keep up such a debonair (I dare say gentlemanly, courtly, and somewhat dashing look). Not many men could handle such a task but I feel it is my lot in life so onward I must go. Truthfully, I hang my shirts up after each use. Unless of course they need washing then into the spinner for a playful date with Mrs. Downy. Other than that I don’t really have a secret. I don’t think my house has any special electrons floating around unless you count the ones which exist simply from having a smoking hot wife.

#2. You and your wife just had your fourth child. I think I speak for all of us when I say....ARE YOU OUT OF YOUR MIND?

As it turns out, Todd, we really don’t know what causes it. We do things to each other and pretty soon stuff like this begins to happen. I can’t keep Shelly away from me, Todd, I try believe me... but she’s like a herd of drunken monkeys. I don’t even have to use Axe or Tag or any other babe-catching pheromone. Like the other night I walked in and simply wink at her and she says to me, “I got a headache and my back is killing me.” And so I respond, “I know what you’re really trying to say baby... It’s business time!”

#3. You now have three girls and one son. Your son, Levi, really is the spitting image of you. He also tends to run smack-dab into walls and tackle other children to the ground. Did he get that from Dad?

The doctors tell us that the concussions and blunt trauma scars will dissipate over time. As far as the other kids are concerned... listen, all we can tell those other parents is, “Quit allowing your kids to be sissies. I mean teach them how to defend themselves already, Mr. Levi’s coming through... honk! honk!” I mean, I really can’t help it if my son already has a positive balance on his Man Card. The dude can chew through a plastic wiener package for goodness sakes.

Seriously though, we got so used to having girls so Levi still strikes us as abnormal at best and downright freakish most other times. We were conditioned to think Pink, Barbie, and Dress Up. Now we have to retrain our minds to think Bugs, Trucks, and the very pensive Man-Grunt. Everyday is a new battle and experience.

Although it is really cool to have at least one child who can instinctively reproduce the sound of any major assault rifle.

#4. I find that you tend to reference the phrase "meat helmets" a lot. Um...what exactly are meat helmets?

I believe the first time I heard it was on Austin Powers. Dr. Evil made the statement reminiscing about his childhood... “My childhood was typical: summers in Rangoon, luge lessons. In the spring, we’d make meat helmets. When I was insolent, I was placed in a burlap bag and beaten with reeds. Pretty standard, really.”

Not sure why that one stuck...

#5. You play guitar and sing, but musically, you're better known as a percussionist. Why haven't you ever transitioned to a full drum kit? Are you scared?

Frankly, I looked around and noticed how all the well-known drummers sweat too much. I’d have no part of that. It messes with my appearance (see question #1).

I saw Bart Millard playing a Djembe in 1997 and fell in love. With the Djembe that is (while Bart is quite the personality... I was less attracted to him). After I purchased my Djembe I began to add similar percussion type instruments and various noise makers. I actually played using a silver bowl once. The ministry I was involved in had several talented “Kit” drummers already so I opted to stick with the more acoustic/simple kit. Other influences included Craig Weaver and Luis Conte.

#6. You're also an Aggie. Do you find that you regularly regret going to A&M? (Or at least for owning so much maroon-colored clothing?)

Look, I have some T-Shirts, ok... My cars are not maroon; my kids aren’t named Kyle, Ross, or Reveille; and my alarm clock is a chime... not the Aggie War Hymn. While it’s true I did attend Bonfire on occasion, I promise I never inhaled! I’m sorry if I tend to fancy saloons, dominoes and extra large burritos but that is just the way it has to be.

#7. When you and I first met, you favored overalls and work boots. Now, you're rather hip...do you miss the overall days?

I was really hoping no one would remember that, Todd. Yes, I still own some Dickies overalls and work boots. Typically these days I only exhibit them in the form of a costume. I’d like to say I’ve become civilized but the truth is I got tired of wearing Wranglers. Not much breathing room in there if you know what I mean? Now overalls... you could go all commando in those bad boys!

#8. Is it true that you and your wife once had a swing dance routine?

Yes, Todd, it is true. I could make up some lame story about this but I think the damage is far too serious already.

#9. Any chance you could video yourselves doing that routine and post it online? Think you guys could still remember all the moves.

Actually, I believe it is archived on YouTube under “What in the hell were we thinking?”

10. Most of us have heard the rumors regarding your wife's burgeoning addiction to sweet tea. First of all...are the rumors true? And if so, what are you doing to walk beside her on the road to recovery?

Remember that arm cast I had? Yeah, I told you it was from a bicycle accident. Truth is I tried to drink Shelly’s sweet tea and she went all Bruce Lee on me. After I came to, I found myself bound and gagged on a boat in the Northern Philippines crying in the arms of a large tattooed man named Mua. Do not, I repeat do not attempt to intervene in any beverage situation with that woman.


My thanks to Robert Conn, a good friend, a great percussionist and the hippest G in all of North Texas. Okay...now give him some Comment Love!

INTER:VIEW - David Runnels

INTER:VIEW is a new feature of Todd Blog where I interview my friends to showcase how rockin' awesome they are. According to the rules of INTER:VIEW, the interview post with the most comments will win a free guest-blogging spot in the future.

#1 Hello, David.

Hello, Todd. Are you aware that your e-mail containing your questions to me was in Times New Roman font? Was that on purpose?

#2. Are you mad at me?

Not in the least bit, extreme emotions are often misidentified. What may appear to you as anger, is an abounding and ludic love. Also, I forgot Monday was laundry day. In absence of clean boxers, I was wearing briefs (they bind).

#3. I feel that it's only right for me to get some of the unpleasantness out of the way before we get in to your interview. A while back, I asked you - rather politely, I think - to participate in a one-day "My Friday" collective post. And you responded with something like "No. I hate the My Friday post." What didn't you just say "No, thank you"? You're normally a very polite individual...why were you so aggressive to me that day in the Cheddars waiting area?

I don’t hate your Friday Post. I’m morally opposed to the concept of ritualistically posting the happenings of one’s life. At least you’re not regularly videoing yourself performing mundane routines and posting those online. Quite honestly, do you really want to read that on each Friday, I sit on the couch in my boxer shorts, eating Peanut Butter Cap’n Crunch while playing Wii for 9 or 10 hours straight?

#4. Do you regret not participating in the My Friday movement?

As of yet…no. However, after this Friday I might feel differently.

#5. But do you, though?

Yeah…secretly, I kinda do. I wish I were interesting enough to have a life, at least once a week.

#6. You recently went through a difficult time with your digital music archive. You lost some songs that were very near and dear to your heart. If you're able, tell us how many songs you lost in the Hard Drive Crash of 2008:

Somewhere in the neighborhood of 12,000. The number of songs directly related to puppetry; 700.

#7. How are you coping?

Very well. The drive did not define me. There are a few songs that keep creeping into my head taunting me, goading me to towards emotional breakdown. I’ve found ignoring my ipod and listening exclusively to AM radio has been a healing salve.

#8. That's so unfortunate, both for the loss of good music and the amount of money invested in purchasing that many songs. How much money total was spent on that large large large catalog of tunes?

That’s a difficult figure to calculate. Without factoring in the value of my labor, the cost of high speed internet, or my subscription to a certain file hosting site in the total of “money spent”, I estimate roughly 5 cents a song.

#9. You bought every one of the songs, right?

That depends on the definition of the word "bought."

buy
1: to acquire possession, ownership, or rights to the use or services of by payment especially of money
2 to obtain in exchange for something often at a sacrifice
3 to redeem, bribe
4: to be the purchasing equivalent of

5: accept, believe

I think under definitions 2 and 5, it is clear that I perhaps bought everyone of the songs. I definitely have used these songs to induce and influence you, Romack, Clay and surely Robert and Jason indirectly. Hey, isn’t that definition 3? 3 out of 5 ain’t bad!

#10. There were no "unauthorized" downloads in that collection, were there?

I could not venture to ascertain if every download was done with official permission. I may owe Steve Fee $9.99.

#11. We're running short on time, but can you give us some background on the whole Alan Tudyk situation?

Alan is know for his acting roles in; A Knight’s Tale, Firefly, as “Steve, the Pirate” in Dodgeball and in 3:10 to Yuma.

I attended Lon Morris College with Alan. Alan was a talented actor even then, prior to attending Jullliard.

My depth and dedication did not go unnoticed at Lon Morris. I was awarded “Male Most Likely to Succeed”.

According to Alan’s IMDB bio HE was given that award. It has taken me 2 years since this discovery to channel my rage, at the slighting I have been given by IMDB, away from Alan and rightfully to Anonymous (May God’s judgment be meeded slowly and painfully upon them whoever they are. Amen.)

#12. You once told me that your "DEAD TO ME" list was getting very long. I would imagine Mr. Tudyk is on that list?

Alan was once on that the sole person on that list. My epiphany in regards to Anonymous, spared Alan that fate. I was once very serious about my “DEAD TO ME” list. Now that I’ve come to see the comedic value of pronouncing one “DEAD TO ME”, the list is long and lacking any true merit (except for Anonymous). I now refuse to read or acknowledge the quotes, poetry, blog comments or passive aggressive notes of Anonymous.

#13. Any other folks on the list that I might know?

Adrienne has the distinguished honor of being placed on the list more than any human being. Sear’s of Lufkin, TX has been on the list since 2001.

Currently flirting with assignment to the list; Wal-Mart, Game X-change, several waitresses at Café Del Rio and the guy that that puts too much syrup on my snow cone despite clear and easily followed instructions which would spare me the inconvenient mess and him money on syrup and napkins.

#14. Thank you for your time, David. You are a fascinating (and horrible) man.

Thanks, Todd. You’re dead to me.

David Runnels, kids...if you like what you're reading, let us know in the comment section below!

INTER:VIEW

One of my favorite blog posts so far this year has been the interview with Lance Burch after his decisive win in the "Coolest Guy" survey.

Here's why...

I have funny friends. Seriously, I have great taste in friends. I'm able to pick smart, hilarious, sincere people to hang out with and, luckily, they want to hang out with me!

That's why I like interviewing my friends...because it gives you all a chance to see how wise and funny and amazing they are.

So, here's the deal...

I want to start showcasing some of my brilliant friends. Over the next few weeks, I'll be interviewing these guys. As the interviews are done, I'll start promoting so that everybody can be sure and show up to read them.

My only requirement is this: on the day each interview posts, the interviewee will post a link on his blog sending people here to read the respective dude's comedic genius. After all the interviews are done, we will tally the comments for each interview. The the most commented interview will receive a free Guest Blogger Pass for the Todd Blog, meaning that they'll be allowed to post whatever they like here on my blog. They will be given ultimate control...limitless power...posting freedom!

So...who should I do first?
Clay
Robert
Jason
Romack
Runnels

INTER:VIEW

Interview with Lance Burch, winner of Coolest Guy Contest

Congratulations, Lance on winning the "Coolest Guy" contest over on Todd's blog. Can you put into words what's going through your head right now?
I guess the biggest thing is surprise... especially with the margin of victory. I had no idea that the guys I spent a lot of time with while in Lufkin were so incredibly uncool. I guess being super-cool like me has its disadvantages - one of those being the uncool hangers-on.

Have you spoken to any of the other candidates? Do you have a message for any of those guys?
I have yet to receive a congratulatory call from any of them so... no, I haven't spoken to them. My message to the others would be this: Maybe cool is genetic - if I were you I would just focus on being friendly.

This really is probably hardest for Todd, don't you think? Why do you think Todd lost? Do more people genuinely feel that you are cooler or do you think there was some sort of backlash against Todd's ego there?
I am concerned that this whole thing has been a huge blow to Todd. And, although there is some level of coolness potential in Brandon T., so far he has only been able to tap into the "hey look at me I'm sarcastic and funny" side of his personality. This is the main reason that Todd lost... I hope he's ready for this truth.

Did you have a strategy in this? What you were doing online and in the public to encourage people to let their voice be heard in your honor?
You don't win these things by accident. We had people out on the street - showing video clips of me during my coolest moments and giving out the website so others could vote. The organization was mobilized in multiple locations and we got the win.I didn't do anything. You let your team speak for you. Nothing is more uncool than asking for a cool vote.

Jason and Robert made very poor showings. Thoughts on why?
Uh... they're not cool.

Do you think Jason's proximity to you was detrimental to him? As friends and neighbors and co-workers, do you think you ended up stealing votes?
Jason only benefits from proximity to me. If anything, he got some mercy votes from people that would have gone to me if he wasn't so approachable and friendly.

Todd is playing your youth camp in July of this year. Is that gonna' be awkward to see him in person? Do you know what you're going to say?
I always find it awkward to see Todd in person... but, that's a long story and one that I won't tell today. I sometimes talk about it in my support group; but, even they shudder when I speak of it. First we will hug. Then, I'm sure, the tears will flow like rain. I will say, "I'm sorry, Todd. I'm so so sorry." I think he will believe me... and then we will move on.

There are some rumors that you will now continue your campaign - that you'll make an effort to showing up on more blog polls for coolest guy or even, as one insider tells us, "best male rock vocal"? Any truth to these rumors?
While we did have some feelers out to see if I could be a viable Coolest Guy in the Nation candidate, we gave up on that effort when we discovered that there was no such contest. I am currently working with the "powers that be" to initiate one.The "best male rock vocal" rumor was started when I totally rocked out to "Wanted - Dead or Alive" at Belisimo's Karaoke night. I am worried that as I age, I am going to lose the classic rock shriek that has been my calling card.

These sort of elections are hard on families. You have any vacation plans with your family now that this amazing journey has come to an end?
You know, the campaign was hard. But, they knew that I was doing this for them. This is all about securing the future... for my children. I am getting a little misty eyed even as I type this. Just think, what kind of difference would it have made in your life if your dad had been cool? We are taking some time off for travel... just the kids and me. I am billing it as an adventure vacation. We are calling it: Let's go find Mom!Seriously, if you hear from Amy... tell her we miss her and to come home.

Do you have a theme song for your campaign victory?
Word Up... by Cameo (not Korn)

For more campaign info from Burch HQ, check out http://www.iftheywouldjustlisten.blogspot.com/.